What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
controversial
Example
The new policy on immigration is highly controversial. [controversial: adjective]
Example
The author's controversial book sparked a heated debate among readers. [controversial: adjective]
disputed
Example
The ownership of the land is disputed between two neighboring countries. [disputed: adjective]
Example
The accuracy of the historical account is disputed by some scholars. [disputed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Controversial is more commonly used than disputed in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and is more accessible to general audiences.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between controversial and disputed?
Disputed is more formal and technical than controversial, and is often used in legal, academic, or scientific contexts where precision and accuracy are important.
